how to clean a pool filter

Author: Poolking - Swimming Pool Equipment Manufacturer

How to Clean a Pool Filter

Maintaining a clean pool is essential for the safety and health of swimmers. One of the key components in keeping a pool clean is the filtration system. Over time, pool filters will get dirty and clogged with debris. A dirty filter affects the pool's circulation and causes the pump to work harder, resulting in higher utility costs. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of cleaning a pool filter to ensure that your pool stays sparkling clean.

Understanding the Different Types of Pool Filters

Before we dive into the cleaning process, it's crucial to know the type of filter you have. There are three types of pool filters:

- Cartridge Filters: These filters are pleated and made of paper or polyester. Cartridge filters are the most popular type of pool filter because of their efficiency and ease of use.

- Sand Filters: Sand filters are the most common type of pool filter. They work by passing water through sand, trapping debris and other contaminants.

- Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Filters: DE filters are the most efficient type of pool filter as they contain grids coated in DE powder, which captures even the smallest debris.

Each filter has different cleaning requirements, so it's crucial to know the type of filter you have before cleaning.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters are the easiest type of filters to clean.

Step 1: Turn off the pump

Before removing the filter for cleaning, make sure the pump is turned off to prevent water from entering and damaging the filter.

Step 2: Remove the filter

Remove the cartridge filter from the housing by unscrewing the clamps or knobs holding it in place.

Step 3: Hose down the filter

Using a garden hose, spray clean water through the filter to remove debris and other contaminants.

Step 4: Soak the filter

Fill a bucket with water and add a filter cleaning solution. Soak the cartridge filter for a few hours before rinsing it with clean water.

Step 5: Reinstall the filter

Once the filter is cleaned and rinsed thoroughly, reinstall it correctly, ensuring that it's aligned correctly.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Sand Filter

Cleaning a sand filter requires more time and effort, but it's still a straightforward process.

Step 1: Turn off the pump

As with the cartridge filter, turn off the pump before removing the sand filter for cleaning.

Step 2: Backwash the filter

Switch the pool's valve system to the backwash setting, and turn on the pump. The pump will force backwash water through the sand, loosening any trapped debris. For sand filters, backwashing is the most critical part of the cleaning process.

Step 3: Rinse the filter

Switch the valve system to the rinse setting, and turn on the pump. Let the rinse water run through the filter for a few minutes, removing any remaining debris.

Step 4: Reinstall the filter

Once the filter is clean, switch the valve system back to the filter setting, and turn the pump back on.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a DE Filter

Cleaning a DE filter is more complicated than cleaning other types of filters, so it's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 1: Turn off the pump

Like other types of filters, turn off the pump before cleaning the DE filter.

Step 2: Remove the filter's grids

Remove the filter's grids, and rinse them with a garden hose.

Step 3: Soak the grids

Soak the grids in a bucket of water and DE powder for a few hours before rinsing them with clean water.

Step 4: Reinstall the grids

Once the grids are clean, reinstall them in the filter, making sure they are aligned correctly.

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean pool is essential for the safety and health of swimmers, and a clean filter is the key to achieving this. By understanding the type of pool filter you have and following the proper cleaning procedure, you can ensure that your pool stays clean and free from harmful contaminants.